THE spirit of co-operation between Leigh and St Helens following Ian Millward's move to Knowsley Road smoothed the way for Andy Leathem's transfer to Hilton Park.

The 24-year-old prop joined Leigh on a free transfer late last week, agreeing a contract until the end of the season.

With coach Paul Terzis eager to top up his senior squad, Leathem was one of his main targets.

"The deal was helped because of the co-operation between the two clubs," he said.

"He didn't cost us a penny in a transfer fee. If he had gone elsewhere, the signing club would have had to shell out a considerable sum."

EIGHT of the best young Rugby League players in Leigh will tour Australia with North West Counties U16s next year .

Sean Dootson, Thomas Grundy, Gareth Hayes (Leigh East), Tim Hartley, Matthew Higginson, Ryan Jones, Aidan West (Leigh MR) and Thomas Smith (Golborne Parkside) will be in a squad of 40.

Head coach is Terry Byrne and coaching co-ordinator Dave Smith, both from Golborne Parkside.

The 50-strong party will fly out in July 2001, and will be away for a month on a trip taking in Fiji, Auckland, Queensland and Sydney.